My Bike and I

Sean O'Riordain, managing director, Park Communications

Sean O'Riordain, managing director, Park Communications

Why the Suzuki 650 DL V - strom? Because it's a great versatile bike and it's easy to ride for touring or commuting. I also think it's ideally suited to me because I'm coming back to motorcycles after a time away.

Why did you become a biker? Because of the enjoyable experience of fresh air, control, movement and the ability to get around using the minimum of road space. I was always interested in motorcycles and motorcycle racing since I was a teenager.

Did you take any rider training? I took a one-day training course, and I have a refresher already planned.

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What does your insurance cost? €670.

Do you drive a car? Yes, an Audi A6.

Any family resistance to your biking? There was concern about safety, training, protective gear etc. but no resistance.

Do you worry about your safety? Accidents happen. By riding with your headlights on, wearing bright clothing and being constantly awake to the possibility of not being seen, which is the main reason cited by motorists for colliding with motorcyclists, your chance of having an accident will be greatly reduced.

What do you use your bike for? Weekend touring and commuting.

Had any accidents? No, thank God!

Do you follow motorbike sports? Yes the British Superbikes (BSB) is great close racing. Valentino Rossi has brought huge interest to the Moto GP with Yamaha, and RTÉ were very wise to cover it. I think it's much more interesting than Formula One even with Ferrari's woes this year.

Taken any trips abroad on two wheels? Last month I rode through the Everglades and the Florida Keys on a Harley Davidson Fatboy that I rented in Key Largo. What a day! God bless American motorcycles. I like simple, powerful Massey Ferguson over-engineering.

Do you think bikers share a special bond? Well, possibly the notion of freedom, the element of danger, the sheer pleasure of banking into a turn, the exposure to the elements and the threat posed by all of us when we drive around, makes biking terrific and unique.

Any bad experiences with motorists? I had an incident where I slid along the road at speed having dropped my Honda 50 after a speedway style slide under maximum braking when a motorist pulled out in front of me. Levis really are well made and durable! And the motorist kept going and got out of the way.

Any biking issues for the Government? Let us access the bus lanes legally. Promote safe riding tips and an awareness campaign for motorists around motorcyclists.

Any tips for safe riding? Stay awake, anticipate, anticipate, anticipate. Wear visible gear and match your speed to the road conditions and speed limits.

If you won the lottery what would be your dream machine? Sticking with V-twins, I'd love a Harley Davidson Fatboy with Screaming Eagle mods or a BMW K 1200 combination for outings with my youngest daughter and the MD.